The largely symbolic move has more to do with politics than supporting Palestinians’ right to self-determination.

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said Monday that his country will recognize a Palestinian state in September, joining a growing list of Western allies as international condemnation and anger builds over Israel’s actions in Gaza.

WELLINGTON, New Zealand -- WELLINGTON, New Zealand (AP) — Australia will recognize a Palestinian state, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said Monday, joining the leaders of France, Britain and Canada in signaling they would do so.

Australia will recognise a Palestinian state at next month's United Nations General Assembly, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said on Monday, a move that adds to international pressure on Israel after similar announcements from France,

French President Emmanuel Macron shared a letter addressed to the leader of the Palestinian Authority on Thursday, citing a need for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza.

An Italian hospital says a 20-year-old Palestinian woman has died after being transferred from Gaza for treatment.

A future state is complicated by the sheer number of Israeli settlers in the occupied territories and the barriers Israel has constructed to separate Palestinians.

The move comes after far-right activist Laura Loomer said Friday that Palestinian “refugees” had entered the U.S. this month.

Plans announced by France, the United Kingdom and Canada to recognize a Palestinian state won’t bring one about anytime soon, though they could isolate Israel and strengthen the Palestinians' negotiating position over the long term.